Stepping into the home of designer Lauren Sullivan during the holiday season reveals a blend of warmth and elegance that captures the spirit of the festivities. Known for her transitional style that fuses vintage charm with modern European influences, Sullivan’s Tennessee residence transforms into a cozy retreat filled with inviting decor.
During a recent revisit to her home, it became clear how her approach to holiday decorating emphasizes simplicity and nostalgia. Her use of red ribbons, lush garlands, and thoughtfully placed wreaths creates a festive atmosphere that remains calm and collected. According to Sullivan, these elements are key to achieving a cohesive holiday aesthetic.
Five Tips for Timeless Holiday Decor
Sullivan, founder of the design studio Well x Design, shares five essential tips for creating a holiday ambiance that feels both elegant and personal.
1. **Choose One Signature Detail and Repeat It Throughout**
For Sullivan, the choice of a single detail, such as red ribbon, sets the tone for the entire decor. “Repeating a single detail throughout the house creates an immediate sense of cohesion,” she explains. By using a combination of satin and velvet ribbons, she maintains visual interest while ensuring the decorations remain intentional rather than overwhelming.
2. **Elevate the Everyday with Natural Greenery**
Incorporating natural elements is another hallmark of Sullivan’s approach. She enjoys using foraged branches, dried citrus, and textured materials that evoke the season. “Fresh greenery instantly softens architectural lines,” she notes, describing how long cedar garlands can enhance mantels and staircases. The key is to allow greenery to fall naturally, bringing movement and life into each room.
3. **Layer Lighting for Warmth and Atmosphere**
Lighting plays a pivotal role in creating warmth during the holidays. Sullivan emphasizes the importance of layered lighting, using taper candles, tree lights, and soft interior fixtures. The Christmas tree in her entryway, adorned with thousands of tiny lights, sets a welcoming glow that permeates the home. Candlelight further enhances the ambiance, adding depth to smaller vignettes.
4. **Add Holiday Touches to Existing Decor**
Rather than overhauling her decor, Sullivan prefers to accentuate what is already present. Simple additions, such as a wreath on the range hood or ribbons tied to sconces, provide subtle holiday flair. These small touches allow the architecture and cherished pieces to shine while incorporating a festive spirit.
5. **Embrace Nostalgia in a Quiet, Intentional Way**
Sullivan believes that a timeless holiday look should evoke familiarity and meaning. “Tree candles, classic greenery, red ribbons, and traditional silhouettes all nod to the past without feeling dated,” she explains. This nostalgic approach fosters warmth while maintaining an edited and refined aesthetic.
Sullivan’s decorating philosophy revolves around the idea that holiday decor should be simple yet effective. By focusing on warmth, nostalgia, and effortless elegance, she demonstrates how individuals can enrich their holiday environments without complexity. Her tips serve as a guide for anyone looking to create a festive atmosphere that complements their personal style.
